It’s a quick turn around for Shamrock Rovers as they have to quickly move on from their European disappointment as they turn their attention to Cork City as they take them on in a later Sunday 6pm Kick-off in Tallaght Stadium.
Rovers recently bowed out of Europe as they lost on penalties against Norwegian side Molde. It was heartbreak for the Hoops but none the less will be extremely proud of the progress they made in the competition. They also suffered defeat against their arch nemesis Bohs as they lost 1-0 due to a goal from Ross Tierney after a fantastic solo run by Connor Parsons.
Bradley used his time with the media over these 2 games to voice his strong opinions about Ireland’s MNT Manager Heimir Hallgrímsson’s comments at Christmas time about his players moving abroad to get Ireland caps. He also voiced his opinions on the treatment of Colin Healy who was relieved of his role as Ireland WNT Assistant Manager as he was promised regardless of Eileen Gleeson’s sacking he would be staying on.
In the space of these 2 games 4 players have been forced with injury leaving Bradley’s side down to the bare bones. He had no choice but to give 18 year-old Cory O’Sullivan his debut. Their game also being taken to penalties on Thursday will leave Rovers very tired after playing lots of games consecutively before that. Shamrock Rovers will be tired no doubt.
City on the other hand have had 9 days since their draw with Galway United. Clancy’s side were very dangerous going forward in the 2-2 draw but gave up the lead on 2 separate occasions. City were arguably the better side against an improved Galway side so that was a big positive to take from the game.
City will feel confident knowing how thin Bradley’s side is and the fitness levels of them while Rovers will also feel that same confidence knowing City will leak goals with a young back 4. Either way it will prove top be a great game and a good test for both sides